Metro Bus Porto

Location
Porto, Portugal

The project aims to redefine the profile of two major and vital main roads regarding pedestrian flow and connectivity. It focuses on improving the city's relationship with pedestrians by fostering social interaction by integrating small recreational spaces, revitalizing sidewalks, and enhancing the overall landscape. The proposed scheme addresses most of the identified issues at the intersection of Avenida da Boavista and Marechal Gomes da Costa. It introduces tunnel crossings that positively segregate the exclusive passage for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) from other vehicles. This solution creates spacious and unobstructed green areas at street level, allowing for a smoother flow of automobile traffic while providing enjoyable pedestrian experiences. The project includes creating well–designed public spaces that promote a greener and safer environment seamlessly connected to pedestrian areas. Encouraging pedestrian movement supports the development of local small–scale economies and fosters connections with BRT stations. The BRT line, spanning from Boavista to Império, encompasses eight stations along a 4 km route. The stations feature a unique and simplified design to attract and accommodate passengers while ensuring their safety. A garden is created on the roof for longer–term usage, supporting the different neighborhoods. Also, it dictates a better view for those who live or work on the upper floors, while it reduces the warmth and carbon generated by the remaining cars and asphalt. Lastly, many parking spaces will be transformed into urban furniture and green areas with diverse tree and plant species, promoting pedestrian–oriented city experiences at the local level and fostering biodiversity.